SECRET REASON GREY'S ANATOMY BEAUTY IS SCARED TO GET MARRIED

Friends say the 36-year-old actress — who plays Dr. Meredith Grey on the hit ABC medical drama — is proceeding with caution when it comes to hunky beau Christopher Ivery, 38, because she can't forget the felony conviction that sent him to jail for more than a year.

"Ellen loves Christopher to death but she can't help feeling that there may be someone else out there better suited for her," a pal told The ENQUIRER.

Chris' criminal past wasn't that important to Ellen when she was a struggling waitress, but now that she's on one of the top-rated TV shows, her feelings have changed as she thinks about her future, says the pal.

"She's had a few of her co-stars try to set her up on dates with some well-known bachelors. Ellen declined the offers for now, but she's having second thoughts.

"Marrying a guy with a criminal past is just not something she envisioned for herself."

In 1994 Christopher pleaded guilty to postal theft and credit card fraud. He served 14 months in prison.

"If she hasn't married Chris by now, it may never happen," said the friend. "She owes it to herself to find Mr. Right and not settle for a man she's having second thoughts about."